EP1108113B1 - Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive - Google Patents

Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1108113B1
EP1108113B1 EP99940339A EP99940339A EP1108113B1 EP 1108113 B1 EP1108113 B1 EP 1108113B1 EP 99940339 A EP99940339 A EP 99940339A EP 99940339 A EP99940339 A EP 99940339A EP 1108113 B1 EP1108113 B1 EP 1108113B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
supporting member
top drive
tubular
tool
stator
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP99940339A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1108113A1 (en
Inventor
Bernd-Georg Pietras
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Weatherford Lamb Inc
Original Assignee
Weatherford Lamb Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Weatherford Lamb Inc filed Critical Weatherford Lamb Inc
Publication of EP1108113A1 publication Critical patent/EP1108113A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1108113B1 publication Critical patent/EP1108113B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
    • E21B19/16—Connecting or disconnecting pipe couplings or joints
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
    • Y10T29/49881—Assembling or joining of separate helix [e.g., screw thread]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
    • Y10T29/49895—Associating parts by use of aligning means [e.g., use of a drift pin or a "fixture"]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
    • Y10T29/49895—Associating parts by use of aligning means [e.g., use of a drift pin or a "fixture"]
    • Y10T29/49902—Associating parts by use of aligning means [e.g., use of a drift pin or a "fixture"] by manipulating aligning means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/53—Means to assemble or disassemble
    • Y10T29/53978—Means to assemble or disassemble including means to relatively position plural work parts

Definitions

  • This invention relates to methods and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive and is more particularly, but not exclusively for facilitating the connection of a section or stand of casing to a string of casing.
  • casing In the construction of wells such as oil or gas wells, it is usually necessary to line predrilled holes with a string of tubulars known as casing. Because of the size of the casing required, sections or stands of say two sections of casing are connected to each other as they are lowered into the well from a platform. The first section or stand of casing is lowered into the well and is usually restrained from falling into the well by a spider located in the platform's floor. Subsequent sections or stands of casing are moved from a rack to the well centre above the spider. The threaded pin of the section or stand of casing to be connected is located over the threaded box of the casing in the well to form a string of casing. The connection is made-up by rotation therebetween.
  • sections or stands of tubulars are often not as uniform as desired.
  • the sections or stands of tubulars are often not straight.
  • the top drive is in perfect alignment with the centre of the spider in the platform of an oil or gas rig.
  • a section or stand of tubulars located in the spider would not always be in alignment with the top drive.
  • an apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive comprising a stator attachable to said top drive, and a supporting member for supporting a tool wherein means are provided to allow substantially horizontal movement of said supporting member.
  • a method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive comprising the steps of attaching a tool to the top drive using a supporting member and adjusting the supporting member to cause the tool to be displaced horizontally relative to the top drive.
  • FIG. 1 there is shown an apparatus which is generally identified by reference numeral 1.
  • the apparatus 1 depends from a rotor 2' of a top drive 3.
  • a tool 4 for gripping a tubular depends from the lower end of the apparatus 1.
  • a rigid guide member 5 is provided to guide the rotor 2 of the apparatus 1.
  • the rigid guide member 5 is fast with a stator 5' of the top drive 3.
  • the rotor 2' of the top drive 3 is coupled by a threaded connection to the rotor 2 of the apparatus 1.
  • the rigid guide member 5 may be provided with a clamp for clamping the rotor 2 of the apparatus 1 so that the threaded connection to the rotor 2' of the top drive 3 can be made, after which the clamp would be released.
  • An elevator 6 is provided on the end of bails 7, 8 which are hung from the top drive 3.
  • Piston and cylinders 9, 10 are arranged between the bails 7, 8 and the top drive 3 for moving the elevator 6 from below the top drive 3 to an out of the way position.
  • the apparatus 1 which comprises a plate 11 which is fixed to a connecting tubular 12 by a collar 13.
  • the connecting tubular 12 passes through a hole 14 in rigid body 5 and connects with the rotor 2 ( Figure 1).
  • the plate 11 has two projections 15 and 16 which have holes 17 for accommodating axles 18 which are rotationally disposed therein.
  • the axles 18 are integral with a rigid body 19.
  • a slider 20 is arranged on runners 21 on either side of the rigid body 19. Arms 22 are connected at one end to the slider 20 via spherical bearings 23.
  • arms 22 are connected to a supporting member 24 via spherical bearings 25.
  • the arms 22 and are provided with lugs 26 to which one end of a piston and cylinder 28 and 29 is attached and are movable thereabout.
  • the other end of each piston and cylinder 28 and 29 is attached to lugs 30 and 31 and is movable thereabout.
  • the lugs 30 and 31 are fixed to plate 11.
  • a mud pipe 32 is provided between the plate 11 and the supporting member 24 for carrying mud to the inside of a tubular therebelow.
  • the mud pipe 32 is located in cylindrical sections 33 and 34 which are attached to the plate 11 and the supporting member 24.
  • the mud pipe 32 is provided with a lobe 35 formed on the outer surface thereof and is located in a corresponding recess 36 in a cylindrical section 33 ( Figure 3).
  • a lobe 37 is slidably arranged on the lower end of the mud pipe 32 with an o-ring seal 38 arranged therebetween to inhibit fluid from leaking therebetween.
  • the lobe 37 is located in a corresponding recess 39 in cylindrical section 34. This arrangement allows a ball and socket type movement between the plate 11 and the supporting member 24 and relative longitudinal movement therebetween.
  • a tool 4 for gripping a tubular is fixed and depends from the supporting member 24 of the apparatus 1.
  • Such a tool may be arranged to be inserted into the upper end of the tubular, with gripping elements of the tool being radially displaceable for engagement with the inner wall of the tubular so as to secure the tubular to the tool.
  • a tubular 40 to be connected to a tubular string held in a spider (not shown), is located over the tool 4.
  • the tool 4 grips the tubular 40.
  • the apparatus 1 and the tubular 40 are lowered by moving the top drive so that the tubular 40 is in close proximity with the tubular string held in the spider.
  • the apparatus 1 allows minor vertical and horizontal movements to be made.
  • the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 allow vertical movement, and may be controlled remotely.
  • the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 may be of the pneumatic compensating type, i.e.
  • Pneumatic compensating piston and cylinders also reduce the risk of damage to the threads of the tubulars. This can conveniently be achieved by introducing pneumatic fluid into the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 and adjusting the pressure therein.
  • the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 may be hydraulic or may be hydraulic and provided with pneumatic bellows.
  • Tubular manipulating equipment such as stabbing guides may be used to direct the pin (not shown) of the tubular 40 into the box of the tubular string held in the spider.
  • the apparatus 1 allows horizontal movement of the tubular 40 relative to the top drive 3. Once the tubular 40 is in line with the tubular string, the top of the tubular 40 may be brought in line with the top drive which may be carried out with pipe handling equipment.
  • the top drive 3 is now in direct alignment with the tubular string held in the spider, and can now rotate the apparatus 1 and hence the tool 4 and the tubular 40 to perfect a connection between the tubular 39 and the tubular string.
  • Figure 4 shows the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 laterally in a 'Y' direction out of alignment with the top drive 3.
  • the mud pipe 32 has moved in recesses 36 and 39 and longitudinally in relation to o-ring seals 38.
  • the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 have moved about lugs 26, 27, 30 and 31.
  • Arms 22 and 22' have moved about spherical bearings 23, 23', 25 and 25'.
  • Figure 5 shows the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular member 40 laterally in an 'x' direction.
  • the mud pipe 32 has moved in recesses 36 and 39 and longitudinally in relation to o-ring seals 38.
  • the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 have moved about lugs 26, 27, 30 and 31.
  • Rigid member 19 has moved about axles 18 and 18' and spherical bearings 23.
  • Figure 6 shows the elevator 6 swung in line with the top drive 3 by rotation of the piston and cylinders 9 and 10 acting on bails 7 and 8.
  • the elevator 3 is located below a box 41 of tubular 40.
  • the tubular 40 may be released from engagement with the tool 4.
  • the elevator 6 may now be raised to take the weight of the tubular 40 and tubular string.
  • the tubular string may now be lowered into the well.
  • Figure 7 is a second embodiment of the present invention and is generally similar to that of Figures 1 to 6 further incorporating adjusting piston and cylinders 42 and 43 so that actuation of the piston and cylinders 42 and 43 can move the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 depending therebelow in a horizontal plane in an x and y axis.
  • the piston and cylinder 42 is arranged between the plate 11 and the rigid member 19 on lugs 44 and 45. Actuation of the piston and cylinder 42 moves the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 along a generally x-axis about axles 18 and 18'.
  • the piston and cylinder 43 is arranged between an extension of arm 22 and slider 20 on lugs 46 and 47. Actuation of the piston and cylinder 43 moves the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 along a generally y-axis about spherical bearings 23, and 25 and the corresponding spherical bearings arranged in arm 22'.
  • the piston and cylinders 42 and 43 may be hydraulically of pneumatically operable and may be controlled via a remote control unit (not shown).
  • a tubular 40 may be gripped by the tool 4 in the way described above and lowered into close proximity with the tubular string held in a spider.
  • the adjusting piston and cylinders 42 and 43 may then be actuated to obtain alignment of the pin of the tubular 40 with the box of the tubular string held in the spider.
  • the tubular 40 may then be rotated to obtain a partial connection or be held in alignment with an additional tool.
  • the piston and cylinders 42 and 43 may then be returned to their original positions to obtain alignment with the top drive 3.
  • the top drive 3 may then be used to torque the connection up to a predetermined torque to complete the connection.

Description

This invention relates to methods and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive and is more particularly, but not exclusively for facilitating the connection of a section or stand of casing to a string of casing.
In the construction of wells such as oil or gas wells, it is usually necessary to line predrilled holes with a string of tubulars known as casing. Because of the size of the casing required, sections or stands of say two sections of casing are connected to each other as they are lowered into the well from a platform. The first section or stand of casing is lowered into the well and is usually restrained from falling into the well by a spider located in the platform's floor. Subsequent sections or stands of casing are moved from a rack to the well centre above the spider. The threaded pin of the section or stand of casing to be connected is located over the threaded box of the casing in the well to form a string of casing. The connection is made-up by rotation therebetween.
It is common practice to use a power tong to torque the connection up to a predetermined torque in order to perfect the connection. The power tong is located on the platform, either on rails, or hung from a derrick on a chain. However, it has recently been proposed to use a top drive for making such connection either alone or in combination with a power tong.
It has been observed that sections or stands of tubulars are often not as uniform as desired. In particular, the sections or stands of tubulars are often not straight. The top drive is in perfect alignment with the centre of the spider in the platform of an oil or gas rig. However, a section or stand of tubulars located in the spider would not always be in alignment with the top drive.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive, the apparatus comprising a stator attachable to said top drive, and a supporting member for supporting a tool wherein means are provided to allow substantially horizontal movement of said supporting member.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive, the method comprising the steps of attaching a tool to the top drive using a supporting member and adjusting the supporting member to cause the tool to be displaced horizontally relative to the top drive.
For a better understanding of the present invention and in order to show how the same may be carried into effect reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which:
  • Figure 1 is a side view in perspective of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention in use;
  • Figure 2 is an enlarged view of parts of Figure 1, with parts inserted in a tubular and with parts cut away;
  • Figure 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view in perspective of part of the apparatus of Figure 1;
  • Figure 4 is an enlarged view of parts of the supports of Figure 1 in a displaced position;
  • Figure 5 is an enlarged view of parts of the apparatus of Figure 1 in a second displaced position;
  • Figure 6 shows the apparatus of Figure 1 in a further stage of operation; and
  • Figure 7 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
    • Referring to Figure 1 there is shown an apparatus which is generally identified by reference numeral 1.
    The apparatus 1 depends from a rotor 2' of a top drive 3. A tool 4 for gripping a tubular depends from the lower end of the apparatus 1. A rigid guide member 5 is provided to guide the rotor 2 of the apparatus 1. The rigid guide member 5 is fast with a stator 5' of the top drive 3. The rotor 2' of the top drive 3 is coupled by a threaded connection to the rotor 2 of the apparatus 1. The rigid guide member 5 may be provided with a clamp for clamping the rotor 2 of the apparatus 1 so that the threaded connection to the rotor 2' of the top drive 3 can be made, after which the clamp would be released.
    An elevator 6 is provided on the end of bails 7, 8 which are hung from the top drive 3. Piston and cylinders 9, 10 are arranged between the bails 7, 8 and the top drive 3 for moving the elevator 6 from below the top drive 3 to an out of the way position.
    Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown the apparatus 1 which comprises a plate 11 which is fixed to a connecting tubular 12 by a collar 13. The connecting tubular 12 passes through a hole 14 in rigid body 5 and connects with the rotor 2 (Figure 1). The plate 11 has two projections 15 and 16 which have holes 17 for accommodating axles 18 which are rotationally disposed therein. The axles 18 are integral with a rigid body 19. A slider 20 is arranged on runners 21 on either side of the rigid body 19. Arms 22 are connected at one end to the slider 20 via spherical bearings 23.
    The other end of arms 22 are connected to a supporting member 24 via spherical bearings 25.
    The arms 22 and are provided with lugs 26 to which one end of a piston and cylinder 28 and 29 is attached and are movable thereabout. The other end of each piston and cylinder 28 and 29 is attached to lugs 30 and 31 and is movable thereabout. The lugs 30 and 31 are fixed to plate 11.
    A mud pipe 32 is provided between the plate 11 and the supporting member 24 for carrying mud to the inside of a tubular therebelow. The mud pipe 32 is located in cylindrical sections 33 and 34 which are attached to the plate 11 and the supporting member 24. The mud pipe 32 is provided with a lobe 35 formed on the outer surface thereof and is located in a corresponding recess 36 in a cylindrical section 33 (Figure 3). A lobe 37 is slidably arranged on the lower end of the mud pipe 32 with an o-ring seal 38 arranged therebetween to inhibit fluid from leaking therebetween. The lobe 37 is located in a corresponding recess 39 in cylindrical section 34. This arrangement allows a ball and socket type movement between the plate 11 and the supporting member 24 and relative longitudinal movement therebetween.
    Referring back to Figure 2, a tool 4 for gripping a tubular is fixed and depends from the supporting member 24 of the apparatus 1. Such a tool may be arranged to be inserted into the upper end of the tubular, with gripping elements of the tool being radially displaceable for engagement with the inner wall of the tubular so as to secure the tubular to the tool.
    In use, a tubular 40 to be connected to a tubular string held in a spider (not shown), is located over the tool 4. The tool 4 grips the tubular 40. The apparatus 1 and the tubular 40 are lowered by moving the top drive so that the tubular 40 is in close proximity with the tubular string held in the spider. However, due to, amongst other things, manufacturing tolerances in the tubular 40, the tubular often does not align perfectly with the tubular held in the spider. The apparatus 1 allows minor vertical and horizontal movements to be made. The piston and cylinders 28 and 29 allow vertical movement, and may be controlled remotely. The piston and cylinders 28 and 29 may be of the pneumatic compensating type, i.e. their internal pressure may be adjusted to compensate for the weight of the tubular 40 so that movement of the tubular may be conducted with minimal force. Pneumatic compensating piston and cylinders also reduce the risk of damage to the threads of the tubulars. This can conveniently be achieved by introducing pneumatic fluid into the piston and cylinders 28 and 29 and adjusting the pressure therein. The piston and cylinders 28 and 29 may be hydraulic or may be hydraulic and provided with pneumatic bellows.
    Tubular manipulating equipment such as stabbing guides may be used to direct the pin (not shown) of the tubular 40 into the box of the tubular string held in the spider. The apparatus 1 allows horizontal movement of the tubular 40 relative to the top drive 3. Once the tubular 40 is in line with the tubular string, the top of the tubular 40 may be brought in line with the top drive which may be carried out with pipe handling equipment. The top drive 3 is now in direct alignment with the tubular string held in the spider, and can now rotate the apparatus 1 and hence the tool 4 and the tubular 40 to perfect a connection between the tubular 39 and the tubular string.
    Figure 4 shows the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 laterally in a 'Y' direction out of alignment with the top drive 3. The mud pipe 32 has moved in recesses 36 and 39 and longitudinally in relation to o-ring seals 38. The piston and cylinders 28 and 29 have moved about lugs 26, 27, 30 and 31. Arms 22 and 22' have moved about spherical bearings 23, 23', 25 and 25'.
    Figure 5 shows the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular member 40 laterally in an 'x' direction. The mud pipe 32 has moved in recesses 36 and 39 and longitudinally in relation to o-ring seals 38. The piston and cylinders 28 and 29 have moved about lugs 26, 27, 30 and 31. Rigid member 19 has moved about axles 18 and 18' and spherical bearings 23.
    Figure 6 shows the elevator 6 swung in line with the top drive 3 by rotation of the piston and cylinders 9 and 10 acting on bails 7 and 8. The elevator 3 is located below a box 41 of tubular 40. The tubular 40 may be released from engagement with the tool 4. The elevator 6 may now be raised to take the weight of the tubular 40 and tubular string. The tubular string may now be lowered into the well.
    Figure 7 is a second embodiment of the present invention and is generally similar to that of Figures 1 to 6 further incorporating adjusting piston and cylinders 42 and 43 so that actuation of the piston and cylinders 42 and 43 can move the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 depending therebelow in a horizontal plane in an x and y axis.
    The piston and cylinder 42 is arranged between the plate 11 and the rigid member 19 on lugs 44 and 45. Actuation of the piston and cylinder 42 moves the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 along a generally x-axis about axles 18 and 18'.
    The piston and cylinder 43 is arranged between an extension of arm 22 and slider 20 on lugs 46 and 47. Actuation of the piston and cylinder 43 moves the supporting member 24, the tool 4 and the tubular 40 along a generally y-axis about spherical bearings 23, and 25 and the corresponding spherical bearings arranged in arm 22'.
    The piston and cylinders 42 and 43 may be hydraulically of pneumatically operable and may be controlled via a remote control unit (not shown).
    In use, a tubular 40 may be gripped by the tool 4 in the way described above and lowered into close proximity with the tubular string held in a spider. The adjusting piston and cylinders 42 and 43 may then be actuated to obtain alignment of the pin of the tubular 40 with the box of the tubular string held in the spider. The tubular 40 may then be rotated to obtain a partial connection or be held in alignment with an additional tool. The piston and cylinders 42 and 43 may then be returned to their original positions to obtain alignment with the top drive 3. The top drive 3 may then be used to torque the connection up to a predetermined torque to complete the connection.
    It is envisaged that various modifications may be made to the above described embodiments, such as using a hydraulic motor in place of the supporting member 24.

    Claims (14)

    1. An apparatus (1) for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive (3), the apparatus comprising a stator (11) attachable to said top drive, and a supporting member (24) for supporting a tool (4), wherein means (1) are provided to allow substantially horizontal movement of said supporting member (24).
    2. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said means (1) also allows substantially vertical movement of said supporting member (24).
    3. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 or 2, wherein said means (1) comprises a rigid member (19) arranged between said stator (11) and said supporting member (24) and arranged on at least one axle (18, 18').
    4. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 3, wherein said means (1) comprises at least one arm (22, 22') arranged between said rigid member (19) and said support member (24) and connected thereto by spherical bearings (25, 25').
    5. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 2 to 4, wherein said means (1) i comprises pistons and cylinders (28, 29) arranged between said stator (11) and said supporting member (24) to allow vertical movement of said supporting member (24).
    6. An apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 2 to 5, further comprising a slider (20) to facilitate vertical movement of said supporting member (24).
    7. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a mud pipe (32) is arranged between said stator (11) and said supporting member (24).
    8. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 7, wherein said mud pipe (32) is movable in relation to said stator (11) and said supporting member (24) about ball joints (35, 36, 37, 39).
    9. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said supporting member (24) is a hydraulic motor.
    10. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim including said tool (4).
    11. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 10, wherein said supporting member (24) is integral with said tool (4).
    12. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 10 or 11, wherein said tool (4) is for gripping a tubular (40).
    13. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim including a top drive (3).
    14. A method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive (3), the method comprising the steps of attaching a tool (4) to the top drive using a supporting member (24) and adjusting the supporting member to cause the tool to be displaced horizontally relative to the top drive.
    EP99940339A 1998-08-24 1999-08-16 Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive Expired - Lifetime EP1108113B1 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (3)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    GB9818363A GB2340858A (en) 1998-08-24 1998-08-24 Methods and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB9818363 1998-08-24
    PCT/GB1999/002710 WO2000011311A1 (en) 1998-08-24 1999-08-16 Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1108113A1 EP1108113A1 (en) 2001-06-20
    EP1108113B1 true EP1108113B1 (en) 2003-05-21

    Family

    ID=10837693

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP99940339A Expired - Lifetime EP1108113B1 (en) 1998-08-24 1999-08-16 Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive

    Country Status (8)

    Country Link
    US (3) US6976298B1 (en)
    EP (1) EP1108113B1 (en)
    AU (1) AU5433599A (en)
    CA (1) CA2340993C (en)
    DE (1) DE69908144T2 (en)
    GB (1) GB2340858A (en)
    NO (1) NO317789B1 (en)
    WO (1) WO2000011311A1 (en)

    Families Citing this family (66)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US6536520B1 (en) * 2000-04-17 2003-03-25 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Top drive casing system
    US6742596B2 (en) * 2001-05-17 2004-06-01 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Apparatus and methods for tubular makeup interlock
    GB9815809D0 (en) 1998-07-22 1998-09-16 Appleton Robert P Casing running tool
    GB2340857A (en) 1998-08-24 2000-03-01 Weatherford Lamb An apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars and alignment with a top drive
    GB2340858A (en) 1998-08-24 2000-03-01 Weatherford Lamb Methods and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB2340859A (en) * 1998-08-24 2000-03-01 Weatherford Lamb Method and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB2345074A (en) 1998-12-24 2000-06-28 Weatherford Lamb Floating joint to facilitate the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB2347441B (en) * 1998-12-24 2003-03-05 Weatherford Lamb Apparatus and method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    CA2301963C (en) * 2000-03-22 2004-03-09 Noetic Engineering Inc. Method and apparatus for handling tubular goods
    US7165609B2 (en) 2000-03-22 2007-01-23 Noetic Engineering Inc. Apparatus for handling tubular goods
    US7325610B2 (en) 2000-04-17 2008-02-05 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Methods and apparatus for handling and drilling with tubulars or casing
    AU2002212852A1 (en) * 2000-10-16 2002-05-15 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Coupling apparatus
    USRE42877E1 (en) 2003-02-07 2011-11-01 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Methods and apparatus for wellbore construction and completion
    GB2439427B (en) * 2003-03-05 2008-02-13 Weatherford Lamb Casing running and drilling system
    WO2004079147A2 (en) * 2003-03-05 2004-09-16 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Method and apparatus for drilling with casing
    US7874352B2 (en) * 2003-03-05 2011-01-25 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Apparatus for gripping a tubular on a drilling rig
    CA2532907C (en) 2005-01-12 2008-08-12 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. One-position fill-up and circulating tool
    CA2533115C (en) 2005-01-18 2010-06-08 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Top drive torque booster
    WO2006116870A1 (en) * 2005-05-03 2006-11-09 Noetic Engineering Inc. Gripping tool
    US7350586B2 (en) * 2005-05-06 2008-04-01 Guidry Mark L Casing running tool and method of using same
    US7445050B2 (en) * 2006-04-25 2008-11-04 Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd. Tubular running tool
    CA2586317C (en) 2006-04-27 2012-04-03 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Torque sub for use with top drive
    US20080060818A1 (en) 2006-09-07 2008-03-13 Joshua Kyle Bourgeois Light-weight single joint manipulator arm
    US7882902B2 (en) 2006-11-17 2011-02-08 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Top drive interlock
    US7552764B2 (en) * 2007-01-04 2009-06-30 Nabors Global Holdings, Ltd. Tubular handling device
    CA2837581C (en) 2007-12-12 2017-09-05 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Top drive system
    US7832487B2 (en) * 2008-04-01 2010-11-16 Tesco Corporation Casing stabbing guide
    US8074711B2 (en) 2008-06-26 2011-12-13 Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd. Tubular handling device and methods
    US8720541B2 (en) 2008-06-26 2014-05-13 Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd. Tubular handling device and methods
    MX2011000612A (en) * 2008-07-18 2011-06-01 Noetic Technologies Inc Tricam axial extension to provide gripping tool with improved operational range and capacity.
    DK2313601T3 (en) 2008-07-18 2018-01-02 Noetic Tech Inc Grip Extension Coupling for Providing Gripper Tools with Improved Scope, and Procedure for Using Them
    US8534354B2 (en) * 2010-03-05 2013-09-17 Schlumberger Technology Corporation Completion string deployment in a subterranean well
    US20110214919A1 (en) * 2010-03-05 2011-09-08 Mcclung Iii Guy L Dual top drive systems and methods
    US9175527B2 (en) * 2010-03-24 2015-11-03 2M-Tek, Inc. Apparatus for handling tubulars
    WO2011139947A2 (en) * 2010-05-03 2011-11-10 Tsc Offshore Group Limited Top drive
    EP3293348A1 (en) 2010-08-09 2018-03-14 Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC Fill up tool
    US8955620B2 (en) 2010-12-30 2015-02-17 Longyear Tm, Inc. Drill rod guide
    US9273523B2 (en) 2011-01-21 2016-03-01 2M-Tek, Inc. Tubular running device and method
    US9010410B2 (en) 2011-11-08 2015-04-21 Max Jerald Story Top drive systems and methods
    US8863846B2 (en) * 2012-01-31 2014-10-21 Cudd Pressure Control, Inc. Method and apparatus to perform subsea or surface jacking
    US9057235B2 (en) 2012-12-18 2015-06-16 Baker Hughes Incorporated Monitoring and control systems for continuous circulating drilling operations
    US20140262526A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Tubular handling apparatus
    US10612359B2 (en) 2015-03-30 2020-04-07 Schlumberger Technology Corporation Drilling control system and method with actuator coupled with top drive or block or both
    CN104929521B (en) * 2015-06-10 2017-04-26 四川宏华石油设备有限公司 Top drive lower sleeve device
    US10465457B2 (en) 2015-08-11 2019-11-05 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool detection and alignment for tool installation
    US10626683B2 (en) 2015-08-11 2020-04-21 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool identification
    CA3185482A1 (en) 2015-08-20 2017-02-23 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Top drive torque measurement device
    US10323484B2 (en) 2015-09-04 2019-06-18 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler for a top drive and a method for using the same for constructing a wellbore
    WO2017044482A1 (en) 2015-09-08 2017-03-16 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Genset for top drive unit
    US10590744B2 (en) 2015-09-10 2020-03-17 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Modular connection system for top drive
    US10167671B2 (en) 2016-01-22 2019-01-01 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Power supply for a top drive
    US11162309B2 (en) 2016-01-25 2021-11-02 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Compensated top drive unit and elevator links
    US10704364B2 (en) 2017-02-27 2020-07-07 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Coupler with threaded connection for pipe handler
    US10954753B2 (en) 2017-02-28 2021-03-23 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool coupler with rotating coupling method for top drive
    US10480247B2 (en) 2017-03-02 2019-11-19 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler with rotating fixations for top drive
    US11131151B2 (en) 2017-03-02 2021-09-28 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool coupler with sliding coupling members for top drive
    US10443326B2 (en) 2017-03-09 2019-10-15 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler
    US10247246B2 (en) 2017-03-13 2019-04-02 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool coupler with threaded connection for top drive
    US10711574B2 (en) 2017-05-26 2020-07-14 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Interchangeable swivel combined multicoupler
    US10544631B2 (en) 2017-06-19 2020-01-28 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler for top drive
    US10526852B2 (en) 2017-06-19 2020-01-07 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler with locking clamp connection for top drive
    US10527104B2 (en) 2017-07-21 2020-01-07 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler for top drive
    US10355403B2 (en) 2017-07-21 2019-07-16 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool coupler for use with a top drive
    US10745978B2 (en) 2017-08-07 2020-08-18 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Downhole tool coupling system
    US11047175B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-06-29 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Combined multi-coupler with rotating locking method for top drive
    US11441412B2 (en) 2017-10-11 2022-09-13 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Tool coupler with data and signal transfer methods for top drive

    Family Cites Families (248)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US179973A (en) 1876-07-18 Improvement in tubing-clutches
    US3006415A (en) 1961-10-31 Cementing apparatus
    US122514A (en) 1872-01-09 Improvement in rock-drills
    US3124023A (en) 1964-03-10 Dies for pipe and tubing tongs
    US3123160A (en) 1964-03-03 Retrievable subsurface well bore apparatus
    US1077772A (en) 1913-01-25 1913-11-04 Fred Richard Weathersby Drill.
    US1185582A (en) 1914-07-13 1916-05-30 Edward Bignell Pile.
    US1301285A (en) 1916-09-01 1919-04-22 Frank W A Finley Expansible well-casing.
    US1342424A (en) 1918-09-06 1920-06-08 Shepard M Cotten Method and apparatus for constructing concrete piles
    US1414207A (en) * 1920-07-06 1922-04-25 Frank E Reed Shaft coupling
    US1471526A (en) 1920-07-19 1923-10-23 Rowland O Pickin Rotary orill bit
    US1418766A (en) 1920-08-02 1922-06-06 Guiberson Corp Well-casing spear
    US1585069A (en) 1924-12-18 1926-05-18 William E Youle Casing spear
    US1728136A (en) 1926-10-21 1929-09-10 Lewis E Stephens Casing spear
    US1830625A (en) 1927-02-16 1931-11-03 George W Schrock Drill for oil and gas wells
    US1805007A (en) * 1927-12-27 1931-05-12 Elmer C Pedley Pipe coupling apparatus
    US1777592A (en) 1929-07-08 1930-10-07 Thomas Idris Casing spear
    US1998833A (en) 1930-03-17 1935-04-23 Baker Oil Tools Inc Cementing guide
    US1825026A (en) 1930-07-07 1931-09-29 Thomas Idris Casing spear
    US1842638A (en) 1930-09-29 1932-01-26 Wilson B Wigle Elevating apparatus
    US1880218A (en) 1930-10-01 1932-10-04 Richard P Simmons Method of lining oil wells and means therefor
    US1917135A (en) 1932-02-17 1933-07-04 Littell James Well apparatus
    US2105885A (en) 1932-03-30 1938-01-18 Frank J Hinderliter Hollow trip casing spear
    US2049450A (en) 1933-08-23 1936-08-04 Macclatchie Mfg Company Expansible cutter tool
    US2017451A (en) 1933-11-21 1935-10-15 Baash Ross Tool Co Packing casing bowl
    US1981525A (en) 1933-12-05 1934-11-20 Bailey E Price Method of and apparatus for drilling oil wells
    US2060352A (en) 1936-06-20 1936-11-10 Reed Roller Bit Co Expansible bit
    US2128430A (en) * 1937-02-08 1938-08-30 Elmer E Pryor Fishing tool
    US2167338A (en) 1937-07-26 1939-07-25 U C Murcell Inc Welding and setting well casing
    US2184681A (en) * 1937-10-26 1939-12-26 George W Bowen Grapple
    US2292268A (en) 1939-03-06 1942-08-04 Gordon C Grasty Well straightening device
    US2216895A (en) 1939-04-06 1940-10-08 Reed Roller Bit Co Rotary underreamer
    US2228503A (en) 1939-04-25 1941-01-14 Boyd Liner hanger
    US2214429A (en) 1939-10-24 1940-09-10 William J Miller Mud box
    US2324679A (en) 1940-04-26 1943-07-20 Cox Nellie Louise Rock boring and like tool
    US2305062A (en) 1940-05-09 1942-12-15 C M P Fishing Tool Corp Cementing plug
    US2295803A (en) 1940-07-29 1942-09-15 Charles M O'leary Cement shoe
    US2370832A (en) 1941-08-19 1945-03-06 Baker Oil Tools Inc Removable well packer
    US2379800A (en) 1941-09-11 1945-07-03 Texas Co Signal transmission system
    US2414719A (en) 1942-04-25 1947-01-21 Stanolind Oil & Gas Co Transmission system
    US2522444A (en) 1946-07-20 1950-09-12 Donovan B Grable Well fluid control
    US2641444A (en) 1946-09-03 1953-06-09 Signal Oil & Gas Co Method and apparatus for drilling boreholes
    US2499630A (en) 1946-12-05 1950-03-07 Paul B Clark Casing expander
    US2668689A (en) 1947-11-07 1954-02-09 C & C Tool Corp Automatic power tongs
    US2570080A (en) * 1948-05-01 1951-10-02 Standard Oil Dev Co Device for gripping pipes
    US2621742A (en) 1948-08-26 1952-12-16 Cicero C Brown Apparatus for cementing well liners
    US2536458A (en) 1948-11-29 1951-01-02 Theodor R Munsinger Pipe rotating device for oil wells
    US2595902A (en) * 1948-12-23 1952-05-06 Standard Oil Dev Co Spinner elevator for pipe
    US2720267A (en) 1949-12-12 1955-10-11 Cicero C Brown Sealing assemblies for well packers
    US2582987A (en) * 1950-01-26 1952-01-22 Goodman Mfg Co Power winch or hoist
    US2610690A (en) 1950-08-10 1952-09-16 Guy M Beatty Mud box
    US2627891A (en) 1950-11-28 1953-02-10 Paul B Clark Well pipe expander
    US2743495A (en) 1951-05-07 1956-05-01 Nat Supply Co Method of making a composite cutter
    US2805043A (en) 1952-02-09 1957-09-03 Jr Edward B Williams Jetting device for rotary drilling apparatus
    US2765146A (en) 1952-02-09 1956-10-02 Jr Edward B Williams Jetting device for rotary drilling apparatus
    US2650314A (en) 1952-02-12 1953-08-25 George W Hennigh Special purpose electric motor
    US2764329A (en) 1952-03-10 1956-09-25 Lucian W Hampton Load carrying attachment for bicycles, motorcycles, and the like
    US2663073A (en) 1952-03-19 1953-12-22 Acrometal Products Inc Method of forming spools
    US2743087A (en) 1952-10-13 1956-04-24 Layne Under-reaming tool
    US2738011A (en) 1953-02-17 1956-03-13 Thomas S Mabry Means for cementing well liners
    US2741907A (en) 1953-04-27 1956-04-17 Genender Louis Locksmithing tool
    US2692059A (en) 1953-07-15 1954-10-19 Standard Oil Dev Co Device for positioning pipe in a drilling derrick
    US2965177A (en) * 1957-08-12 1960-12-20 Wash Overshot And Spear Engine Fishing tool apparatus
    US2978047A (en) 1957-12-03 1961-04-04 Vaan Walter H De Collapsible drill bit assembly and method of drilling
    US3054100A (en) 1958-06-04 1962-09-11 Gen Precision Inc Signalling system
    US3159219A (en) 1958-05-13 1964-12-01 Byron Jackson Inc Cementing plugs and float equipment
    US3087546A (en) 1958-08-11 1963-04-30 Brown J Woolley Methods and apparatus for removing defective casing or pipe from well bores
    US2953406A (en) 1958-11-24 1960-09-20 A D Timmons Casing spear
    US3041901A (en) 1959-05-20 1962-07-03 Dowty Rotol Ltd Make-up and break-out mechanism for drill pipe joints
    US3090031A (en) 1959-09-29 1963-05-14 Texaco Inc Signal transmission system
    US3117636A (en) 1960-06-08 1964-01-14 John L Wilcox Casing bit with a removable center
    US3111179A (en) 1960-07-26 1963-11-19 A And B Metal Mfg Company Inc Jet nozzle
    US3102599A (en) 1961-09-18 1963-09-03 Continental Oil Co Subterranean drilling process
    US3131778A (en) 1961-12-11 1964-05-05 William C Emerson Drilling deflection apparatus
    US3191680A (en) 1962-03-14 1965-06-29 Pan American Petroleum Corp Method of setting metallic liners in wells
    US3131769A (en) 1962-04-09 1964-05-05 Baker Oil Tools Inc Hydraulic anchors for tubular strings
    US3122811A (en) 1962-06-29 1964-03-03 Lafayette E Gilreath Hydraulic slip setting apparatus
    US3266582A (en) * 1962-08-24 1966-08-16 Leyman Corp Drilling system
    US3169592A (en) 1962-10-22 1965-02-16 Lamphere Jean K Retrievable drill bit
    US3193116A (en) 1962-11-23 1965-07-06 Exxon Production Research Co System for removing from or placing pipe in a well bore
    US3191683A (en) * 1963-01-28 1965-06-29 Ford I Alexander Control of well pipe rotation and advancement
    US3191677A (en) 1963-04-29 1965-06-29 Myron M Kinley Method and apparatus for setting liners in tubing
    NL6411125A (en) 1963-09-25 1965-03-26
    US3305021A (en) * 1964-06-11 1967-02-21 Schlumberger Technology Corp Pressure-responsive anchor for well packing apparatus
    US3353599A (en) 1964-08-04 1967-11-21 Gulf Oil Corp Method and apparatus for stabilizing formations
    US3321018A (en) * 1964-10-07 1967-05-23 Schlumberger Technology Corp Well tool retrieving apparatus
    DE1216822B (en) 1965-03-27 1966-05-18 Beteiligungs & Patentverw Gmbh Tunneling machine
    US3380528A (en) 1965-09-24 1968-04-30 Tri State Oil Tools Inc Method and apparatus of removing well pipe from a well bore
    US3419079A (en) 1965-10-23 1968-12-31 Schlumberger Technology Corp Well tool with expansible anchor
    US3392609A (en) 1966-06-24 1968-07-16 Abegg & Reinhold Co Well pipe spinning unit
    US3477527A (en) 1967-06-05 1969-11-11 Global Marine Inc Kelly and drill pipe spinner-stabber
    US3635105A (en) 1967-10-17 1972-01-18 Byron Jackson Inc Power tong head and assembly
    US3518903A (en) 1967-12-26 1970-07-07 Byron Jackson Inc Combined power tong and backup tong assembly
    US3489220A (en) 1968-08-02 1970-01-13 J C Kinley Method and apparatus for repairing pipe in wells
    US3548936A (en) 1968-11-15 1970-12-22 Dresser Ind Well tools and gripping members therefor
    US3552507A (en) 1968-11-25 1971-01-05 Cicero C Brown System for rotary drilling of wells using casing as the drill string
    US3747675A (en) 1968-11-25 1973-07-24 C Brown Rotary drive connection for casing drilling string
    US3552508A (en) 1969-03-03 1971-01-05 Cicero C Brown Apparatus for rotary drilling of wells using casing as the drill pipe
    US3570598A (en) 1969-05-05 1971-03-16 Glenn D Johnson Constant strain jar
    US3550684A (en) 1969-06-03 1970-12-29 Schlumberger Technology Corp Methods and apparatus for facilitating the descent of well tools through deviated well bores
    US3566505A (en) * 1969-06-09 1971-03-02 Hydrotech Services Apparatus for aligning two sections of pipe
    US3559739A (en) 1969-06-20 1971-02-02 Chevron Res Method and apparatus for providing continuous foam circulation in wells
    US3552509A (en) 1969-09-11 1971-01-05 Cicero C Brown Apparatus for rotary drilling of wells using casing as drill pipe
    US3552510A (en) 1969-10-08 1971-01-05 Cicero C Brown Apparatus for rotary drilling of wells using casing as the drill pipe
    US3638989A (en) * 1970-02-05 1972-02-01 Becker Drills Ltd Apparatus for recovering a drill stem
    US3780883A (en) * 1971-03-18 1973-12-25 Brown Oil Tools Pipe handling system for use in well drilling
    US3706347A (en) * 1971-03-18 1972-12-19 Cicero C Brown Pipe handling system for use in well drilling
    US3697113A (en) * 1971-03-25 1972-10-10 Gardner Denver Co Drill rod retrieving tool
    US3766991A (en) 1971-04-02 1973-10-23 Brown Oil Tools Electric power swivel and system for use in rotary well drilling
    US3691825A (en) 1971-12-03 1972-09-19 Norman D Dyer Rotary torque indicator for well drilling apparatus
    US3776320A (en) 1971-12-23 1973-12-04 C Brown Rotating drive assembly
    US3848684A (en) 1973-08-02 1974-11-19 Tri State Oil Tools Inc Apparatus for rotary drilling
    US3857450A (en) 1973-08-02 1974-12-31 W Guier Drilling apparatus
    US3871618A (en) * 1973-11-09 1975-03-18 Eldon E Funk Portable well pipe puller
    US3913687A (en) 1974-03-04 1975-10-21 Ingersoll Rand Co Pipe handling system
    US3964552A (en) * 1975-01-23 1976-06-22 Brown Oil Tools, Inc. Drive connector with load compensator
    US3961399A (en) * 1975-02-18 1976-06-08 Varco International, Inc. Power slip unit
    US4065941A (en) 1975-05-16 1978-01-03 Koto Sangyo Kabushiki Kaisha Universal joint
    US4100968A (en) 1976-08-30 1978-07-18 Charles George Delano Technique for running casing
    US4202225A (en) * 1977-03-15 1980-05-13 Sheldon Loren B Power tongs control arrangement
    US4204910A (en) 1977-08-25 1980-05-27 Batjukov Vladimir I Gripping means for refuelling a nuclear reactor
    US4320915A (en) 1980-03-24 1982-03-23 Varco International, Inc. Internal elevator
    US4401000A (en) * 1980-05-02 1983-08-30 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Tong assembly
    US4437363A (en) 1981-06-29 1984-03-20 Joy Manufacturing Company Dual camming action jaw assembly and power tong
    FR2523635A1 (en) 1982-03-17 1983-09-23 Bretagne Atel Chantiers DEVICE FOR MOUNTING A DRILL ROD TRAIN AND FOR TRAINING IN ROTATION AND TRANSLATION
    US4524998A (en) * 1982-05-04 1985-06-25 Halliburton Company Tubular connecting device
    US4449596A (en) 1982-08-03 1984-05-22 Varco International, Inc. Drilling of wells with top drive unit
    US4604724A (en) 1983-02-22 1986-08-05 Gomelskoe Spetsialnoe Konstruktorsko-Tekhnologicheskoe Bjuro Seismicheskoi Tekhniki S Opytnym Proizvodstvom Automated apparatus for handling elongated well elements such as pipes
    US4489794A (en) * 1983-05-02 1984-12-25 Varco International, Inc. Link tilting mechanism for well rigs
    US4494424A (en) 1983-06-24 1985-01-22 Bates Darrell R Chain-powered pipe tong device
    US4524833A (en) 1983-09-23 1985-06-25 Otis Engineering Corporation Apparatus and methods for orienting devices in side pocket mandrels
    US4683962A (en) 1983-10-06 1987-08-04 True Martin E Spinner for use in connecting pipe joints
    NO154578C (en) * 1984-01-25 1986-10-29 Maritime Hydraulics As BRIDGE DRILLING DEVICE.
    IT8406925V0 (en) * 1984-02-17 1984-02-17 Giampaolo Rocchelli DEVICE FOR DISPENSING FLUID SOAP APPLICABLE TO WATER DISPENSING UNIT IN WASHBASINS, SINKS AND SIMLI.
    US4529045A (en) 1984-03-26 1985-07-16 Varco International, Inc. Top drive drilling unit with rotatable pipe support
    EP0162000A1 (en) * 1984-04-16 1985-11-21 Hughes Tool Company Top drive well drilling apparatus with removable link adapter
    US4904228A (en) 1984-05-14 1990-02-27 Norton Christensen, Inc. Universal ball joint
    US4649777A (en) 1984-06-21 1987-03-17 David Buck Back-up power tongs
    US4593584A (en) * 1984-06-25 1986-06-10 Eckel Manufacturing Co., Inc. Power tongs with improved hydraulic drive
    US4759239A (en) 1984-06-29 1988-07-26 Hughes Tool Company Wrench assembly for a top drive sub
    CA1239634A (en) 1984-07-27 1988-07-26 William D. Stringfellow Weight compensating elevator
    GB2167105B (en) * 1984-10-03 1988-05-05 Lucas Brian Ronald Apparatus for use in drilling
    US4605077A (en) 1984-12-04 1986-08-12 Varco International, Inc. Top drive drilling systems
    US4625796A (en) 1985-04-01 1986-12-02 Varco International, Inc. Well pipe stabbing and back-up apparatus
    FR2588297B1 (en) * 1985-10-09 1987-12-04 Soletanche DEVICE FOR UNDERWATER DRILLING OF FOUNDATIONS
    US4709599A (en) 1985-12-26 1987-12-01 Buck David A Compensating jaw assembly for power tongs
    DE3614537A1 (en) 1986-04-29 1987-11-12 Otis Engineering Gmbh FILTER DEVICE FOR OIL DELIVERY DEVICES
    DE3617227A1 (en) 1986-05-22 1987-11-26 Wirth Co Kg Masch Bohr DEVICE WITH AN END OF A TUBE CLAMPABLE SPIDER OR THE LIKE.
    US4765401A (en) 1986-08-21 1988-08-23 Varco International, Inc. Apparatus for handling well pipe
    US4676312A (en) 1986-12-04 1987-06-30 Donald E. Mosing Well casing grip assurance system
    US4815546A (en) * 1987-04-02 1989-03-28 W-N Apache Corporation Top head drive assembly with axially movable quill
    US4762187A (en) 1987-07-29 1988-08-09 W-N Apache Corporation Internal wrench for a top head drive assembly
    AU1400188A (en) 1987-04-02 1988-10-06 W-N Apache Corporation Internal wrench for a top head drive assembly
    US4836064A (en) 1987-04-10 1989-06-06 Slator Damon T Jaws for power tongs and back-up units
    US4813493A (en) * 1987-04-14 1989-03-21 Triten Corporation Hydraulic top drive for wells
    US4800968A (en) 1987-09-22 1989-01-31 Triten Corporation Well apparatus with tubular elevator tilt and indexing apparatus and methods of their use
    US4875530A (en) * 1987-09-24 1989-10-24 Parker Technology, Inc. Automatic drilling system
    CA1302391C (en) 1987-10-09 1992-06-02 Keith M. Haney Compact casing tongs for use on top head drive earth drilling machine
    US4791997A (en) 1988-01-07 1988-12-20 Vetco Gray Inc. Pipe handling apparatus and method
    US4878546A (en) * 1988-02-12 1989-11-07 Triten Corporation Self-aligning top drive
    US4793422A (en) * 1988-03-16 1988-12-27 Hughes Tool Company - Usa Articulated elevator links for top drive drill rig
    GB2224481A (en) 1988-11-04 1990-05-09 Heerema Engineering Improvements in internal elevators
    US4971146A (en) * 1988-11-23 1990-11-20 Terrell Jamie B Downhole chemical cutting tool
    US4899816A (en) * 1989-01-24 1990-02-13 Paul Mine Apparatus for guiding wireline
    US5009265A (en) 1989-09-07 1991-04-23 Drilex Systems, Inc. Packer for wellhead repair unit
    US5036927A (en) 1989-03-10 1991-08-06 W-N Apache Corporation Apparatus for gripping a down hole tubular for rotation
    US5191939A (en) 1990-01-03 1993-03-09 Tam International Casing circulator and method
    US4997042A (en) 1990-01-03 1991-03-05 Jordan Ronald A Casing circulator and method
    US5251709A (en) 1990-02-06 1993-10-12 Richardson Allan S Drilling rig
    IT1237971B (en) 1990-02-07 1993-06-19 Tecnomare Spa INTERNAL CENTERING DEVICE PARTICULARLY SUITABLE FOR THE COUPLING OF HEAD OF TUBES
    US5107940A (en) * 1990-12-14 1992-04-28 Hydratech Top drive torque restraint system
    NO173750C (en) 1991-09-30 1994-01-26 Wepco As Circulating Equipment
    US5351767A (en) 1991-11-07 1994-10-04 Globral Marine Inc. Drill pipe handling
    US5255751A (en) 1991-11-07 1993-10-26 Huey Stogner Oilfield make-up and breakout tool for top drive drilling systems
    US5207128A (en) * 1992-03-23 1993-05-04 Weatherford-Petco, Inc. Tong with floating jaws
    US5340182A (en) 1992-09-04 1994-08-23 Varco International, Inc. Safety elevator
    US5297833A (en) 1992-11-12 1994-03-29 W-N Apache Corporation Apparatus for gripping a down hole tubular for support and rotation
    US5388651A (en) * 1993-04-20 1995-02-14 Bowen Tools, Inc. Top drive unit torque break-out system
    US5314032A (en) 1993-05-17 1994-05-24 Camco International Inc. Movable joint bent sub
    US5433279A (en) * 1993-07-20 1995-07-18 Tessari; Robert M. Portable top drive assembly
    US5503236A (en) 1993-09-03 1996-04-02 Baker Hughes Incorporated Swivel/tilting bit crown for earth-boring drills
    JPH07158124A (en) 1993-12-02 1995-06-20 Nagaoka:Kk Screen for well having uniform outside diameter
    US5836395A (en) 1994-08-01 1998-11-17 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Valve for wellbore use
    EP1205628A1 (en) 1994-05-28 2002-05-15 MACKINTOSH, Kenneth A grease tube
    IT1266026B1 (en) 1994-06-14 1996-12-16 Soilmec Spa DEVICE FOR THE LOADING AND SCREWING OF RODS AND LINING PIPES COMPONENTS OF A DRILLING BATTERY
    US5617926A (en) 1994-08-05 1997-04-08 Schlumberger Technology Corporation Steerable drilling tool and system
    US5577566A (en) 1995-08-09 1996-11-26 Weatherford U.S., Inc. Releasing tool
    US5501286A (en) * 1994-09-30 1996-03-26 Bowen Tools, Inc. Method and apparatus for displacing a top drive torque track
    US5503234A (en) 1994-09-30 1996-04-02 Clanton; Duane 2×4 drilling and hoisting system
    US5553672A (en) 1994-10-07 1996-09-10 Baker Hughes Incorporated Setting tool for a downhole tool
    US5501280A (en) * 1994-10-27 1996-03-26 Halliburton Company Casing filling and circulating apparatus and method
    GB9425499D0 (en) 1994-12-17 1995-02-15 Weatherford Lamb Method and apparatus for connecting and disconnecting tubulars
    US5584343A (en) 1995-04-28 1996-12-17 Davis-Lynch, Inc. Method and apparatus for filling and circulating fluid in a wellbore during casing running operations
    US5575344A (en) * 1995-05-12 1996-11-19 Reedrill Corp. Rod changing system
    UA67719C2 (en) 1995-11-08 2004-07-15 Shell Int Research Deformable well filter and method for its installation
    US5806589A (en) * 1996-05-20 1998-09-15 Lang; Duane Apparatus for stabbing and threading a drill pipe safety valve
    GB2315696A (en) 1996-07-31 1998-02-11 Weatherford Lamb Mechanism for connecting and disconnecting tubulars
    US5850877A (en) 1996-08-23 1998-12-22 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Joint compensator
    US6056060A (en) 1996-08-23 2000-05-02 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Compensator system for wellbore tubulars
    NO302774B1 (en) 1996-09-13 1998-04-20 Hitec Asa Device for use in connection with feeding of feeding pipes
    US5735348A (en) 1996-10-04 1998-04-07 Frank's International, Inc. Method and multi-purpose apparatus for dispensing and circulating fluid in wellbore casing
    US6279654B1 (en) * 1996-10-04 2001-08-28 Donald E. Mosing Method and multi-purpose apparatus for dispensing and circulating fluid in wellbore casing
    US6273634B1 (en) 1996-11-22 2001-08-14 Shell Oil Company Connector for an expandable tubing string
    US5765638A (en) * 1996-12-26 1998-06-16 Houston Engineers, Inc. Tool for use in retrieving an essentially cylindrical object from a well bore
    US5791410A (en) 1997-01-17 1998-08-11 Frank's Casing Crew & Rental Tools, Inc. Apparatus and method for improved tubular grip assurance
    US6360633B2 (en) 1997-01-29 2002-03-26 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Apparatus and method for aligning tubulars
    GB9701758D0 (en) * 1997-01-29 1997-03-19 Weatherford Lamb Apparatus and method for aligning tubulars
    US5850766A (en) * 1997-05-16 1998-12-22 Stokes; Charles William Pipe joint break-out device
    US6536520B1 (en) * 2000-04-17 2003-03-25 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Top drive casing system
    US6742596B2 (en) * 2001-05-17 2004-06-01 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Apparatus and methods for tubular makeup interlock
    US5971079A (en) 1997-09-05 1999-10-26 Mullins; Albert Augustus Casing filling and circulating apparatus
    US6199641B1 (en) 1997-10-21 2001-03-13 Tesco Corporation Pipe gripping device
    GB2334270A (en) * 1998-02-14 1999-08-18 Weatherford Lamb Apparatus for attachment to pipe handling arm
    US6070500A (en) 1998-04-20 2000-06-06 White Bear Energy Serives Ltd. Rotatable die holder
    US6390190B2 (en) * 1998-05-11 2002-05-21 Offshore Energy Services, Inc. Tubular filling system
    GB9815809D0 (en) * 1998-07-22 1998-09-16 Appleton Robert P Casing running tool
    GB2340858A (en) * 1998-08-24 2000-03-01 Weatherford Lamb Methods and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB2340857A (en) * 1998-08-24 2000-03-01 Weatherford Lamb An apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars and alignment with a top drive
    GB2340859A (en) 1998-08-24 2000-03-01 Weatherford Lamb Method and apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB2345074A (en) 1998-12-24 2000-06-28 Weatherford Lamb Floating joint to facilitate the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    GB2347441B (en) * 1998-12-24 2003-03-05 Weatherford Lamb Apparatus and method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    AU1884300A (en) * 1999-01-11 2000-08-01 Weatherford/Lamb Inc. A pipe assembly and lubricating method
    US7591304B2 (en) * 1999-03-05 2009-09-22 Varco I/P, Inc. Pipe running tool having wireless telemetry
    DE60028425T2 (en) * 1999-03-05 2006-10-19 Varco I/P, Inc., Houston Installation and removal device for pipes
    US6309002B1 (en) 1999-04-09 2001-10-30 Frank's Casing Crew And Rental Tools, Inc. Tubular running tool
    US6431626B1 (en) 1999-04-09 2002-08-13 Frankis Casing Crew And Rental Tools, Inc. Tubular running tool
    US6276450B1 (en) * 1999-05-02 2001-08-21 Varco International, Inc. Apparatus and method for rapid replacement of upper blowout preventers
    US6311792B1 (en) 1999-10-08 2001-11-06 Tesco Corporation Casing clamp
    WO2001026864A1 (en) * 1999-10-13 2001-04-19 Torres Carlos A Mechanical torque amplifier
    GB0004354D0 (en) * 2000-02-25 2000-04-12 Wellserv Plc Apparatus and method
    US7107875B2 (en) * 2000-03-14 2006-09-19 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars while drilling
    US6412554B1 (en) 2000-03-14 2002-07-02 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Wellbore circulation system
    CA2301963C (en) * 2000-03-22 2004-03-09 Noetic Engineering Inc. Method and apparatus for handling tubular goods
    US7325610B2 (en) * 2000-04-17 2008-02-05 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Methods and apparatus for handling and drilling with tubulars or casing
    US6349764B1 (en) 2000-06-02 2002-02-26 Oil & Gas Rental Services, Inc. Drilling rig, pipe and support apparatus
    US6571868B2 (en) * 2000-09-08 2003-06-03 Bruce M. Victor Well head lubricator assembly with polyurethane impact-absorbing spring
    GB2357530B (en) 2000-11-04 2003-09-03 Weatherford Lamb Method and apparatus for gripping tubulars
    EP1421252B1 (en) * 2001-08-27 2007-03-21 Varco I/P, Inc. Washpipe assembly
    US6679333B2 (en) * 2001-10-26 2004-01-20 Canrig Drilling Technology, Ltd. Top drive well casing system and method
    WO2003102350A2 (en) * 2002-05-30 2003-12-11 Gray Eot, Inc. Drill pipe connecting and disconnecting apparatus
    WO2004079147A2 (en) * 2003-03-05 2004-09-16 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Method and apparatus for drilling with casing
    US6907934B2 (en) * 2003-03-11 2005-06-21 Specialty Rental Tool & Supply, L.P. Universal top-drive wireline entry system bracket and method
    NO20032220L (en) * 2003-05-15 2004-11-16 Mechlift As Ceiling Tool II and method for using the same
    US7100698B2 (en) * 2003-10-09 2006-09-05 Varco I/P, Inc. Make-up control system for tubulars
    CA2448841C (en) * 2003-11-10 2012-05-15 Tesco Corporation Pipe handling device, method and system
    US7188686B2 (en) * 2004-06-07 2007-03-13 Varco I/P, Inc. Top drive systems
    CA2512570C (en) * 2004-07-20 2011-04-19 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Casing feeder
    CA2533115C (en) * 2005-01-18 2010-06-08 Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. Top drive torque booster

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    GB2340858A (en) 2000-03-01
    CA2340993C (en) 2006-08-08
    GB9818363D0 (en) 1998-10-21
    US7617866B2 (en) 2009-11-17
    NO20010564L (en) 2001-03-05
    NO20010564D0 (en) 2001-02-02
    CA2340993A1 (en) 2000-03-02
    US20100051257A1 (en) 2010-03-04
    AU5433599A (en) 2000-03-14
    DE69908144T2 (en) 2004-04-08
    NO317789B1 (en) 2004-12-13
    DE69908144D1 (en) 2003-06-26
    US6976298B1 (en) 2005-12-20
    US8132626B2 (en) 2012-03-13
    EP1108113A1 (en) 2001-06-20
    WO2000011311A1 (en) 2000-03-02
    US20060000601A1 (en) 2006-01-05

    Similar Documents

    Publication Publication Date Title
    EP1108113B1 (en) Methods and apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive
    US6705405B1 (en) Apparatus and method for connecting tubulars using a top drive
    US6725938B1 (en) Apparatus and method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    EP2612982B1 (en) Apparatus and method for positioning connection equipment
    US6622796B1 (en) Apparatus and method for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    US8100187B2 (en) Multipurpose tubular running tool
    US20130105178A1 (en) Apparatus and methods for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive
    EP1517000B1 (en) Adapter frame for a power frame
    CA2857796C (en) Top drive stand compensator with fill up tool
    CA2590542C (en) An apparatus for connecting tubulars using a top drive

    Legal Events

    Date Code Title Description
    PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

    17P Request for examination filed

    Effective date: 20010216

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A1

    Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

    RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

    Owner name: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    GRAA (expected) grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

    AK Designated contracting states

    Designated state(s): DE FR GB IT NL

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRE;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.SCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20030521

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    REF Corresponds to:

    Ref document number: 69908144

    Country of ref document: DE

    Date of ref document: 20030626

    Kind code of ref document: P

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Payment date: 20030808

    Year of fee payment: 5

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Payment date: 20030828

    Year of fee payment: 5

    ET Fr: translation filed
    PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

    STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

    Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

    26N No opposition filed

    Effective date: 20040224

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: MM4A

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050301

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050429

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: ST

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: NL

    Ref legal event code: SD

    Effective date: 20150318

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: 732E

    Free format text: REGISTERED BETWEEN 20151022 AND 20151028

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: NL

    Payment date: 20160810

    Year of fee payment: 18

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: NL

    Ref legal event code: MM

    Effective date: 20170901

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: NL

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20170901

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Payment date: 20180815

    Year of fee payment: 20

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: PE20

    Expiry date: 20190815

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

    Effective date: 20190815